Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s most famous speech makes a distinctive argument for equal treatment of men and women. Reading major excerpts, students will trace that argument, gaining direct insight into Stanton’s thought and her approach. The speech embodies 19th century concern for individual autonomy and self- sufficiency and captures a female perspective on being asked to settle for a weaker and dependent role.
This module is designed for a deep dive into a seminal text, organized to take six hours or seven fifty-minute periods. It may work best as part of a curriculum that includes work on liberty and individualism from varied other perspectives. It was created in the Summer 2013 Social Studies Design Jam, and is shared with special thanks to the Kentucky Education Association for the use of their Lexington facilities.
